Keplerian Element Estimation for Radio Sputnik 15 (RS-15)

摘要

The estimation of Keplerian elements for RS-15 served not only to provide interim Keplerian elements for amateur satellite operators, but it also provided Space Command a convenient means of discriminating the RS-15 satellite from the upper stage debris cloud. This cooperative exchange provided positive identification of RS-15, which in turn initiated updates of high quality Space Command Keplerian elements.